Unsigned Find: Hotspur

Shakespeare is undoubtedly one of the most revered and influential writer/poets of all time. His stories and characters have inspired countless acts of romance, bravery and fortitude. But, thanks to D.C. based pop/rock band Hotspur, Mr. Shakespeare can add "band name inspiration" to his list of achievements. Joe, the band's lead vocalist explains, "Hotspur is taken from a character in Shakespeare's Henry IV; he was a hot-headed rebel hero who led an uprising against the king, killed a bunch of people, and died a glorious and tragic death. He was basically the rock star of his day, so it seemed like a good fit for a rock band." And we're not using the term "rock band" lightly here. Unlike lots of imposters, the five Hotspur boys are bona fide rock stars. You might even say they have bravado. Typical live shows include stage jumping, head banging, sweating and hot pants. Of his pre-show ritual Joe confesses "our live show is a pretty strenuous affair so before gigs we're warming up and stretching--safety first!" Even rock stars don't want to pull a hamstring.

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These five have a lot more going for them than just limber muscles and convincing stage antics. In fact, as an unsigned band they've already made quite an impact on the industry. Just this past year, Hotspur took home the grand prize at the acclaimed New Music Seminar where top industry professionals chose them as this year's Artist On The Verge. As a winner of mtvU's well-known program The Freshman, Hotspur has had three of their music videos already added into rotation on the station. And, rounding out their long list of accomplishments, these boys have made the film & TV placement rounds. Their songs have been featured on major shows such as The Hills, The Buried Life, and Oxygen Network's cult hit Bad Girls Club.

But, it's not only hit television shows that have embraced Hotspur's true rock sound. Major (and dare we say it, signed) bands have taken the boys under their wing. Hotspur has already opened for Seventeen Mag favorite (and recent "Band Spotlight" feature!) 2AM Club. Of his other tour mates, Joe describes "we also did a few shows with Metro Station at Six Flags which got pretty crazy--we almost caused a riot at one of the parks because I told all 5,000 people in the audience to come ride the 'Man of Steel' with me."

While their next album isn't slated for release until Spring 2011, the caring boys of Hotspur haven't forgotten that their anxious fans are craving new songs. Hotspur groupies will be pleased to hear that as of now, the guys plan to release several of their new records digitally before the new album officially drops. And thankfully so, because we have a feeling that a mob of angry Hotspur fans would cause a riot even more tragic than the most epic Shakespearean battle!

-Jenna Hally Rubenstein

Like what you know so far? Get a free Hotspur download by clicking here and be sure to check them out on MySpace, "like" them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter! Tell us what you think in the comments section below too!